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I just love having a conversation that I can\u2019t understand\u2014said no one ever! Take a conversation about dental implants, for instance. Your periodontist will likely use some words that you\u2019re not familiar with, because\u2014well\u2014you\u2019re not a periodontist. However, that doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t learn those words. Read on for a cheat sheet that will help you understand and may even make you feel less apprehensive about the procedure.<\/p>\n
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Let\u2019s start at the beginning. A dental implant is a small medical device that is surgically embedded in your jawbone. Once in place, the implant secures a dental prosthesis, which can be a denture, a crown or a bridge. Most periodontists today use endosteal dental implants, which are in the bone. The other option is subperiosteal\u2014on the bone\u2014implants that are part of a metal framework with posts that extend above your gums.<\/p>\n
The abutment is that portion of the prosthetic connecting the implant to the denture, crown or bridge. The periodontist will either build it into the implant or secure it on top. An abutment is essential to holding the prosthetic restoration in place.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re up on your Latin then this word shouldn\u2019t be a problem. But in case you\u2019re not\u2014osseo is from the Latin ossum<\/em>, bone, and integrare<\/em>, to make whole. The word refers to the firm anchoring of the dental implant by the growth of bone tissue around it.<\/p>\n Titanium is a type of metal that is used to construct most dental implants. The advantages of titanium are numerous. First, not many people are allergic to titanium. Secondly, it\u2019s strong but also lightweight so the weight on your jawbone is less once the implant is placed. Finally, titanium integrates well with bone tissue, which is why it is also used in other surgical procedures like hip and knee replacements.<\/p>\n Zirconia is another material used to manufacture implants. It is naturally white and reduces the risk of bacterial growth around an implants and attached restoration.<\/p>\n Dental implants can even be made of ceramic, a clay-based material. As such, ceramic is usually white or ivory, so it may be preferable to metal implants for some patients. In addition, for someone who is allergic to metal, ceramic implants offer a viable solution.<\/p>\n These definitions should get you by when you have a conversation with your periodontist. However, if there\u2019s anything you don\u2019t understand, ask!<\/p>\n <\/p>\nTitanium<\/h2>\n
Zirconia<\/h2>\n
Ceramic<\/h2>\n